Musical Description of an Aeolian Wind Harp
The aeolian harp, often called a wind harp, is a type of instrument played solely by the wind. It appeared originally in ancient Greek times and can now be found in a variety of styles.
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History
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The aeolian wind harp is a type of musical instrument that first appeared in ancient Greece and was popularized in the Romantic period of the latter half of the 19th century. Unlike other musical instruments, the aeolian harp is not played by a person, but instead, by the wind, as its name suggests (Aeolus is the name of the guardian of the winds in Greek mythology.)
Function
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This special type of harp was valued for its ethereal sound production properties. It was often placed in windows or outside where the wind could vibrate its strings, producing a variety of sounds depending on the speed and strength of the wind and also how the harp itself was tuned.
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Features
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All aeolian harps have strings, usually 10 to 12 or more, which can be tuned to the same pitch or different pitches. They are strung across wood and faced into the direction of the wind so that it can blow across the strings, producing the odd sounds not typically heard from conventional western instruments. The wind's vibration of the strings brings out the harmonic, or overtone, sounds (pitches above the fundamental), which aren't often heard when a stringed instrument is played by a person in the typical manner.
Types
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Several different types of aeolian harps can now be found. The most common, and oldest, types are placed across the openings of doors and windows. Today, one can also find cylindrical harps, which can be placed on stands or hung from trees or other places. Their shape allows them to catch winds from a variety of directions, and some offer space on the bottom where one can place their head to better hear the sounds of the strings. Some larger aeolian harps stand on their own and are meant as works of art or outdoor sculptures. One can also find sound boxes that hold one or more people who can sit inside to enjoy being enveloped by the sounds.
Geography
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The harp originated in ancient Greece but also made appearances in China and India. It then found some popularity in Europe during the Renaissance and again during the second half of the 19th century. They can now be found throughout the world.
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